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New Map Shows Good Broadband Coverage in Marion County

A nonprofit organization commissioned by the Iowa Utilities Board has created a detailed map of broadband coverage across the state. Connect Iowa’s map shows there is some type of broadband available in the vast majority of Marion County.

Dan McKay, owner of McKay Insurance in Knoxville says from a business standpoint, broadband connectivity is essential for companies who want to keep in touch with their clients. McKay says the internet is their “window to the world” as they do business across the county and today people demand much more information via the internet than they did before. He says without his company’s internet presence they would not be able to expand as much as they have in the last 10-15 years. McKay says he feels that broadband connection is one of the top factors he would consider if expanding or relocating his business and thinks coverage here in Knoxville is excellent.

Karen Eischen, Executive Director of the Pella Chamber of Commerce echoes McKay’s comment on coverage in the area and says Pella’s local companies feel they are well-covered for broadband service and feel there is enough bandwidth available for expansion. However, Eischen says broadband access is not a primary factor companies tend to consider when looking into opening an office in Pella, likely because they already know it is available.